Best Des Moines to Detroit Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Detroit and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 598 mile move from Iowa to Michigan go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 19 Des Moines to Detroit moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Adamantine Spine Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines compared to Detroit. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Des Moines to Detroit Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.54 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 2 | Best Move Inc | 9.26 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property |
| 3 | Hemmen Moving | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 4 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.49 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | Balance Detroit | 8.48 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Des Moines to Detroit?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 598 miles from Des Moines, IA to Detroit, MI will cost on average $2,290 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Detroit move is roughly $5,487. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,542 | 300 ft³ | $5.14 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,290 | 450 ft³ | $5.09 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,779 | 750 ft³ | $5.04 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,487 | 1100 ft³ | $4.99 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,901 | 1600 ft³ | $4.94 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,799 | 1800 ft³ | $4.89 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Detroit to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Detroit Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Adamantine Spine Moving
2815 36th St
Des Moines, IA, 50310
About Adamantine Spine Moving
With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1471037 / 556716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 37 |
| Registered Drivers | 40 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 393,823 (2022) |
Best Move Inc
Burlington, IA, 52601
About Best Move Inc
Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its...
Services
- Material Packing
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 749231 / 376435 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,976 (2022) |
Hemmen Moving
1293 W Ave
Ames, IA, 50014
About Hemmen Moving
For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and...
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 608245 / 292343 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 604,536 (2023) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
11850 E Jefferson
Detroit, MI, 48214
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
Livonia, MI, 48150
About Balance Detroit
Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...
Services
- White Glove Service
- Long Distance Moves
- Small Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2024) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Des Moines vs. Detroit Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Detroit, MI, helping you find a new community that feels like home. By matching top neighborhoods from Des Moines with their Detroit counterparts, you can better understand what to expect and where you might want to settle.
| Des Moines | Detroit | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Midtown | Vibrant arts and cultural scene |
| Beaverdale | Rosedale Park | Strong community with beautiful homes |
| Waveland Park | Palmer Woods | Historic homes and lush landscapes |
| Sherman Hill | Corktown | Rich history and diverse community vibes |
| Drake | Woodbridge | Close-knit community and historic charm |
| Waterbury | Boston-Edison | Beautiful historic district |
| Highland Park | Indian Village | Grand homes and architectural splendor |
| Southwestern Hills | Mexicantown | Rich cultural diversity and cuisine |
| Ingersoll Park | Lafayette Park | Modernist neighborhood with green spaces |
| Gray's Lake | Belle Isle | Scenic parks and recreational activities |
When you move from Des Moines to Detroit, you'll find unique neighborhoods that offer a blend of history, culture, and community. For instance, if you enjoy the vibrant arts scene and boutique shopping of East Village, the eclectic and artistically rich Midtown in Detroit will welcome you with open arms. Here, you can visit the Detroit Institute of Arts and catch live performances at the Majestic Theatre. Those moving from Beaverdale will find Rosedale Park's well-organized community events and beautiful homes reminiscent of what they're used to. Detroit's Palmer Woods, comparable to Waveland Park, offers residents superb architectural diversity and access to nature, best enjoyed through the winding roads and nearby Detroit parks and recreation spots. Each Detroit neighborhood mirrors its Des Moines counterpart in spirit, ensuring you're never too far from the comfort of what feels like home, even as you embark on this new city adventure.
Things to Do in Detroit
Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts- Visit the Belle Isle Park
- Enjoy a game at Comerica Park
- Walk along the Detroit Riverfront
- Discover the Henry Ford Museum
- Experience the Motown Museum
- Try local eats at Eastern Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Des Moines to Detroit
Moving cities is a significant life event, often full of excitement and trepidation. In this comparison, we aim to provide an honest reflection of moving from Des Moines, IA to Detroit, MI, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges associated with such a relocation. By examining the pros and cons side by side, we hope to offer valuable insights to aid in your decision-making process.
Des Moines, IA- Smaller job market
- Lower diversity
- Fewer cultural venues
- Less night life
Detroit, MI- Larger job market
- Greater diversity
- More cultural venues
- Vibrant night life
Detroit, MI- Higher living costs
- More traffic
- Urban hustle
- Less communal feel
Des Moines, IA- More affordable living
- Less traffic congestion
- Quiet, suburban feel
- Community-oriented
Relocating from Des Moines to Detroit presents several changes. While Des Moines offers a more affordable, serene suburbia, Detroit thrives with a pulsating urban energy. Detroit's Detroit Institute of Arts and the Motown Museum are testaments to its rich cultural tapestry, unmatched by Des Moines' quieter scene. Nightlife in Detroit, especially in areas like Downtown and Midtown, offers a vibrant array of bars and clubs, a sharp contrast to the more laid-back evenings in Des Moines. However, it's worth noting that this bustling lifestyle comes with a higher cost of living and increased traffic in Detroit, aspects that might need consideration depending on your lifestyle preferences and priorities.
Des Moines vs. Detroit Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines & Detroit, aiming to provide insights into the food cultures of both areas. Food plays a crucial role in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of a place. As you consider moving, this comparison will equip you with knowledge about what culinary experiences to expect.
- Aria
- Centro
- Fong's Pizza
- American Coney Island
- Buddy's Pizza
- Slows Bar BQ
Detroit's Coney Dog, an all-American classic, contrasts uniquely with Des Moines's cherished Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, highlighting the diverse palate preferences across these cities. Detroit's square pizza, a hearty nod to Sicilian roots is especially beloved, positioning itself as the city's most popular meat dish. For vegans, Detroit's adaptation of the iconic Coney to a vegan version showcases its evolving diverse food scene. The famed American Coney Island and Buddy's Pizza are must-visit spots that offer a taste of Detroit's rich culinary heritage. Meanwhile, Des Moines's unique offering of Walking Tacos speaks to an inventive street food scene that’s equally enticing. The city’s propensity for BBQ and innovative takes on vegan dishes, like the Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, showcase a vibrant, yet differing culinary stance from Detroit's traditional meat-heavy dishes and burgeoning vegan scene.
Des Moines vs. Detroit Restaurant Comparison
Food plays an integral part in making a place feel like home. Whether you're moving from Des Moines to Detroit, this restaurant comparison will guide you to find your new favorite eateries, easing the transition to your next adventure.
| Des Moines | Detroit | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Auburn Place | Selden Standard | Similar focus on seasonal and local ingredients. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Green Dot Stables | Unique sliders parallel to Zombie Burger's creative burgers. |
| Centro | SheWolf | Both are upscale, offer exceptional Italian cuisine. |
| Fong's Pizza | Supino Pizzeria | Artisanal pizzas that rival Fong's innovative toppings. |
| Le Jardin | Iridescence | Fine dining with a focus on sophisticated presentations. |
| Smash Park | Punch Bowl Social Detroit | Similar entertainment-dining concept with fun games. |
| Bubba | SavannahBlue | Southern charm and comfort foods in a classy setting. |
| El Bait Shop | Batch Brewing Company | Both offer a wide selection of craft beers and hearty pub fare. |
| 801 Chophouse | London Chop House | Equally esteemed for their steaks and upscale dining experience. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Atwater Brewery | Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the similar dedication to quality brews. |
When considering dining options in Detroit that resonate with Des Moines favorites, several establishments stand out for their unique offerings and atmosphere. Selden Standard’s dedication to fresh, local ingredients echoes the farm-to-table ethos found at Auburn Place, ensuring a seamless transition for foodies in search of quality dishes. For those missing the inventive pizzas from Fong's, Supino Pizzeria promises a culinary adventure with its array of artisanal pizzas, each slice bursting with flavor and crafted with care. Finally, if you're seeking a spot that combines dining with entertainment akin to Smash Park, Detroit's Punch Bowl Social offers a vibrant setting where food, drinks, and games come together for a memorable night out. Each Detroit counterpart not only matches its Des Moines muse in quality and atmosphere but also adds a twist to make your new dining experiences thrilling.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Detroit Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes between your current and future cities is crucial. This guide highlights key aspects of Des Moines, IA, and Detroit, MI, housing, from costs and architecture to lifestyle ratings, to help you navigate one of the most important parts of your move.
The difference in median home prices between Des Moines and Detroit is substantial, with Detroit offering much lower prices, potentially making it an attractive option for buyers with a tighter budget. Des Moines tends to feature spacious yards and proximity to schools, catering to family needs, while Detroit's real estate highlights include historic properties and areas undergoing urban renewal, appealing to those interested in urban revival and history. Additionally, although Des Moines scores higher on walkability and bikeability, Detroit's urban lifestyle rating is slightly higher, indicative of its rich cultural scene and revival efforts in recent years.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI
1 Corktown : You'll love how many parks and walking trails are in Corktown, making it perfect for your daily outings with your pet.
2 Midtown : Midtown offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops where you and your furry friend can enjoy a relaxed outing together.
3 Royal Oak : Known for its dog parks and pet-friendly community events, Royal Oak is a haven for pet owners like you seeking an active lifestyle for your pets.
Des Moines vs. Detroit Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison between Des Moines, IA, and Detroit, MI weather patterns will help you adapt more easily to your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both Des Moines and Detroit experience all four seasons, you'll find Detroit has milder winters but compensates with more snowfall compared to Des Moines. If you're moving from Des Moines, you might notice more cloudy days in Detroit, given its fewer days of sunshine. On the plus side, both cities share similar humidity levels and the risk of pollen-based allergies, easing the adaptation for those with seasonal allergies. Understanding these differences will not only help you prepare your wardrobe but also manage expectations for seasonal outdoor activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Detroit
When contemplating a move from one city to another, a key aspect to consider is how the cost of living and financial landscape in Des Moines compares to that in Detroit. This comparison will give you a better understanding of what to expect in terms of expenses, taxes, and overall economic environment.
Exploring the details further, one of the standout differences between Des Moines and Detroit is the average household income, which is significantly higher in Des Moines. This can play a major role in your financial planning. Despite Detroit's lower cost of living index, the city faces higher poverty rates and a moderate level of homelessness, factors that are closely tied to economic conditions and job availability in the area's leading industries. Understanding these financial and economic nuances is crucial for preparing for your move.
Des Moines vs. Detroit Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Des Moines, IA, to Detroit, MI, it's useful to get a sense of how the local communities compare. This quick overview offers an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, helping you understand the cultural and societal environments you're moving into.
In moving from Des Moines to Detroit, you’ll notice that while both cities share a predominant Christian faith, Detroit boasts a significantly noticeable Islamic community, enriching the city's cultural fabric. Politically, Detroit is much more strongly Democratic than Des Moines, reflecting the city's urban-centric approach to local issues, which might contrast with Des Moines’s more mixed urban-rural perspectives on policy and governance. Understanding these aspects of your new home can help you better integrate and connect with your new community.
Des Moines vs. Detroit Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Des Moines, IA to Detroit, MI, it's essential to understand the differences in daily commutes and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Detroit is designed to help you navigate the change more smoothly, considering aspects like average commute times, congestion levels, and public transit availability.
In Des Moines, your commute might be relatively swift and smooth, given the city's lower traffic congestion levels. However, public transit options are somewhat limited, making it a city where having a car is almost a necessity for convenient travel. In contrast, Detroit offers slightly more in terms of public transit availability, thanks to services like the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the QLINE streetcar. While the average commute time and traffic congestion are a bit higher in Detroit, the increased public transit options reduce the absolute need for a car, though moving around some parts of the city without one can still be challenging.
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